The judge in charge of Donald Trump’s trial dismissed several potential jurors from New York City who said they couldn’t fairly judge the case about a supposed payment to a porn star.
Judge Juan Merchan stressed the need for jurors to put aside personal biases and political views on the trial’s first day.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat, accused Trump of altering records to hide a $130,000 payment to Stormy Daniels just before the 2016 election. Trump denies any involvement with Daniels and pleaded not guilty.
Despite requests to skip a trial session for a U.S. Supreme Court appearance, the judge ruled Trump must attend the trial, which is expected to continue until May. The trial’s outcome could affect Trump’s future in politics before the November 5 election.
Donald Trump (Via Barry West/Getty Images)
During jury selection, prosecutors asked for fines against Trump for allegedly violating a gag order by criticizing witnesses on social media. Trump’s lawyer argued his comments were responses to attacks from witnesses.
As the trial progresses, witnesses such as former National Enquirer chief David Pecker and Playboy model Karen McDougal are expected to testify.
However, the judge prohibited mentioning McDougal’s affair with Trump during Melania’s pregnancy to avoid prejudicing the jury.
There was a noticeable police presence outside the courthouse, and a few protesters displayed their views with handmade signs.
While seen as less important compared to Trump’s other legal battles, this trial is significant because it’s the only one guaranteed to happen before the election.
